Watts link install. - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

onebad65c10 · 06-17-2009, 03:18 PM

Installation of KP komponets Watts link in a 1965 Chevrolet C-10.
The truck this is being installed on is My 65 c10 that has been air bagged with firestone 2600's out back. The truck also features a Classic Performance bolt in c-notch that has been welded and smoothed.
This is a sight that I am sure many of you 60-72 owners are familiar with the stock two link with a panard bar.

Here is the kit laid out to check for all the parts. It is a nicely constructed piece that comes powder coated.

All the hardware is grade 8

First step was to install the center bell crank in to the rear pumpkin cage.

Next I had to remove the stock panard bar bracket by cutting the rivets and using an air hammer.

Next the cage was bolted to the rear differential using the supplied hardware.

Next the links were assembled and put in to test for articulation and placement of weld in plates.

The only welding was because I have the stock frame in the rear.

Here is a final install picture after the welds cool and ground down, and everything was undercoated.

This picture is at full lift.

This picture is full drop. Through the whole range of motion the rear end only moves about a quarter inch.

I don't know if I have posted a pic with the new wheels, so here it is. The are the full size 4 wheel drive Gm rallies and chrome center caps. I do have the trim rings on them now. The tires are 245/60/R15 Bf Goodrich Radial T/A.

shortbed70 · 06-17-2009, 05:31 PM

Do you have any problems with pumpkin hitting bed floor? I am also going to do 2600 in the rear on my 65

onebad65c10 · 06-17-2009, 06:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shortbed70

Do you have any problems with pumpkin hitting bed floor? I am also going to do 2600 in the rear on my 65

It did when it was first installed. I had to grind a little bit out of my wood. Also my bed floor is raised an inch and a half. if there is someone standing in the bed when lowered it just barley lifts the floor. Something I was thinking about doing is getting a rear cover and use it for the extra space. Something like a S10 rear.

daverod · 06-30-2009, 09:49 PM

Sweet I'm just posting so I'll be able to find it again. I'm just getting ready to mess with mine.

daverod · 06-30-2009, 10:08 PM

I thought I got it. Now I'm confussed again. How does a watts link work? Anyone, anyone,

You said It only move 1/4" thought the whole range of motion. What motion? The axle in relation to what? I'm lost

Please someone beat this into my head. I want to know.

Never mind I learned somthing new today.

daverod · 06-30-2009, 10:19 PM

If you did'nt have a watts link and were just using a pan bar how much would it move your axle over? What would it hit?

onebad65c10 · 06-30-2009, 10:32 PM

know that feeling. I bought mine with my tax money. Money well spent.

hotrodhomi · 06-30-2009, 11:32 PM

I have the same one on my 2wd blazer.

blue64 · 12-24-2009, 10:59 AM

speedway has one for 69.99 not exactly the same but should work. its a universal so it will need modification to the rods.

CSoliz · 12-24-2009, 11:51 AM

Jacobs ladder? What would that look like?

62gmc910 · 12-24-2009, 12:12 PM

SCOTI · 12-24-2009, 01:25 PM

I've heard references of the Jacobs ladder but have never seen one installed in a vehicle. Any pics post installation?

62gmc910 · 12-24-2009, 01:47 PM

The only thing I have is in old chassis books
Both of these installs have too steep of angles

low79fx · 12-24-2009, 07:32 PM

Do you have any problems with this wheels in the back as far as rubbing on the quarter panels.I'm going to run a set on some BFG 255/60-15.Was just wondering.

onebad65c10 · 08-24-2010, 05:34 PM

Ok everyone. Sorry for the delay in responce to the questions on my Watts link install. Life took priority.

I have had a blast driving the truck with this installed over teh adjustable track bar that was installed first with the bags. I have tuned the bars to get no movement side to side. The truck handles alot better. Before when I would jump on it and take off quick it felt unsettled until I got off the gas. Now when ever I jump on it or wanna play with the truck launches and go straight with very little torqueing. I have had no noise coming from any part of the set up. I am very pleases with the set up and the longevity.

As far as the lip around the differental cover the main cage sits inside the lip. I didnt have to change the cover or anything.
Hope this helps. Any other questions feel free to ask.
Later
Phil

dznucks · 10-11-2010, 02:42 PM

Thanks for posting back, guys. thats the kind of feed back i was looking for.

I have a CPP deluxe track bar and do not like how it forces the rear of the truck to the left when i hit a bump. Its dangerous in a turn when you hit a pothole or bump in the road.

I want something that will not give lateral movement.

Sick5 · 10-11-2010, 04:08 PM

Now I'm wondering if I need watts link
I have ss r7 bags and four link
no pan bar I do notice the rear tends to move when raised or lowerd
I was thinking a Pan bar would help
but I'm not sure now.
Posted via Mobile Device

chevy_mike · 10-11-2010, 05:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sick5

Now I'm wondering if I need watts link
I have ss r7 bags and four link
no pan bar I do notice the rear tends to move when raised or lowerd
I was thinking a Pan bar would help
but I'm not sure now.
Posted via Mobile Device

Are you using a triangulated 4 link or straight style? If not triangulated, then yes, you need some type of locating bar, be a panhard or watts link.

Sick5 · 10-11-2010, 08:32 PM

MmMMMMmmmmm wow I've been driving for four years.. Lol
I have a center V I was told I would be ok.
Posted via Mobile Device

chevy_mike · 10-11-2010, 09:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sick5

MmMMMMmmmmm wow I've been driving for four years.. Lol
I have a center V I was told I would be ok.
Posted via Mobile Device

That translates to a triangulated style because it has a V in the link design. A straight style 4 link is the ones where the 4 bars run front to rear, parallel to each other.

Technically, if the V bars are joined at a single point at either end, its really a 3 bar setup. That would likely need a locating device versus the V bars no actually joining at a single point, hence 4 individual bars. Make sense?

dznucks · 12-03-2010, 10:12 AM

Onebad.....do you have any rear pics of the watts link at ride height?

onebad65c10 · 12-05-2010, 01:48 AM

I do not have any pics at ride height. Didnt get any pics at ride height when I installed it. I may have to check the pics I have on another foum i may have one from underneath.

60chvstepside · 12-05-2010, 01:58 PM

here is my watts link install,it is the speedway one....i may make the mounting bracket a little better yet but nothing moves so far ive tested it in the garage alot hope these pics help

Rich 5150 69 · 12-05-2010, 05:27 PM

Here`s another article on watts link, somewhat smaller and contained.
http://www.webrodder.com/article.php...&SID=60&CID=11

dznucks · 12-13-2010, 01:44 PM

Thanks One Bad. My exhaust comes over the axle, i was hoping to see how much clearance there is once this is installed.

I went ahead and bought the KP watts link. I hope to get it installed over the christmas break.

06-17-2009, 03:18 PM	#1
onebad65c10 Gm for life. Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Baltimore, Md Posts: 119	Watts link install. Installation of KP komponets Watts link in a 1965 Chevrolet C-10. The truck this is being installed on is My 65 c10 that has been air bagged with firestone 2600's out back. The truck also features a Classic Performance bolt in c-notch that has been welded and smoothed. This is a sight that I am sure many of you 60-72 owners are familiar with the stock two link with a panard bar. Here is the kit laid out to check for all the parts. It is a nicely constructed piece that comes powder coated. All the hardware is grade 8 First step was to install the center bell crank in to the rear pumpkin cage. Next I had to remove the stock panard bar bracket by cutting the rivets and using an air hammer. Next the cage was bolted to the rear differential using the supplied hardware. Next the links were assembled and put in to test for articulation and placement of weld in plates. The only welding was because I have the stock frame in the rear. Here is a final install picture after the welds cool and ground down, and everything was undercoated. This picture is at full lift. This picture is full drop. Through the whole range of motion the rear end only moves about a quarter inch. I don't know if I have posted a pic with the new wheels, so here it is. The are the full size 4 wheel drive Gm rallies and chrome center caps. I do have the trim rings on them now. The tires are 245/60/R15 Bf Goodrich Radial T/A.

06-17-2009, 05:31 PM	#2
shortbed70 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Forney TX Posts: 4,512	Re: Watts link install. Do you have any problems with pumpkin hitting bed floor? I am also going to do 2600 in the rear on my 65 __________________ Troy 1965 Chevy Bagged,361 sbc,voodoo cam,1.5 full roller rockers,patriot 185cc vortec heads 2.02-1.60,vortec weiand polished intake,demon carb my truckhttp://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=332884 Big Red Dog build http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=572274

06-30-2009, 09:49 PM	#4
daverod SSN 706 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Pocatello Idaho Posts: 3,821	Re: Watts link install. Sweet I'm just posting so I'll be able to find it again. I'm just getting ready to mess with mine.

06-30-2009, 10:08 PM	#5
daverod SSN 706 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Pocatello Idaho Posts: 3,821	Re: Watts link install. I thought I got it. Now I'm confussed again. How does a watts link work? Anyone, anyone, You said It only move 1/4" thought the whole range of motion. What motion? The axle in relation to what? I'm lost Please someone beat this into my head. I want to know. Never mind I learned somthing new today. Last edited by daverod; 06-30-2009 at 10:14 PM.

06-30-2009, 10:19 PM	#6
daverod SSN 706 Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Pocatello Idaho Posts: 3,821	Re: Watts link install. If you did'nt have a watts link and were just using a pan bar how much would it move your axle over? What would it hit?

06-30-2009, 10:32 PM	#7
onebad65c10 Gm for life. Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Baltimore, Md Posts: 119	Re: Watts link install. know that feeling. I bought mine with my tax money. Money well spent. __________________ Phil CHEVY ONLY Baltimore, MD 65 Short wide: 383 stroker 5 spd Toys: D/D: 2017 Silverado LTZ2 crewcab 1969 Pontiac GTO Yes it is a real goat waiting its turn to be the car it was. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pr...59&ref=profile

06-30-2009, 11:32 PM	#8
hotrodhomi Registered User Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Sacramento Posts: 3,737	Re: Watts link install. I have the same one on my 2wd blazer. __________________ '72 2wd blazer, bagged w/ watts link & EDC '72 C10 "Lowered Farm Truck" STOLEN 5-18-11 '66 impala ht

12-24-2009, 10:59 AM	#9
blue64 Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Georgia Posts: 51	Re: Watts link install. speedway has one for 69.99 not exactly the same but should work. its a universal so it will need modification to the rods.

12-24-2009, 11:51 AM	#10
CSoliz Torn between 66 and 78 Join Date: May 2008 Location: So. Cal. Posts: 253	Re: Watts link install. Jacobs ladder? What would that look like?

12-24-2009, 12:12 PM	#11
62gmc910 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Cremona AB Canada Posts: 370	Re: Watts link install. Attached Images __________________ 62 GMC 910 short fleetside 454 super t10 14 bolt w/gov lock 70s c20 front discs (built in the 80s) 65 GMC 930 dualwheel 292 4spd all origonal 39k mi(my sons truck) 63 GMC 950 camperized school bus, (Gus the bus) 350 4speed 2 speed rear 64 GMC 950 "spare" bus 283? 4speed detroit locker 53 GMC 1ton dual wheel bus 78 GMC c25 short course off road race truck(son's truck) 355 th400 14 bolt (www.wheel2wheel.ca) 88 Peterbilt 379 longhood (hauls race truck)

12-24-2009, 01:25 PM	#12
SCOTI Registered User Join Date: Apr 2001 Location: DALLAS,TX Posts: 21,997	Re: Watts link install. I've heard references of the Jacobs ladder but have never seen one installed in a vehicle. Any pics post installation? __________________ 67SWB-B.B.RetroRod 64SWB-Recycle 89CCDually-Driver/Tow Truck 99CCSWB Driver All Fleetsides @rattlecankustoms in IG Building a small, high rpm engine with the perfect bore, stroke and rod ratio is very impressive. It's like a highly skilled Morrocan sword fighter with a Damascus Steel Scimitar..... *Cubic inches is like Indiana Jones with a cheap pistol.*

12-24-2009, 01:47 PM	#13
62gmc910 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Cremona AB Canada Posts: 370	Re: Watts link install. The only thing I have is in old chassis books Both of these installs have too steep of angles Attached Images __________________ 62 GMC 910 short fleetside 454 super t10 14 bolt w/gov lock 70s c20 front discs (built in the 80s) 65 GMC 930 dualwheel 292 4spd all origonal 39k mi(my sons truck) 63 GMC 950 camperized school bus, (Gus the bus) 350 4speed 2 speed rear 64 GMC 950 "spare" bus 283? 4speed detroit locker 53 GMC 1ton dual wheel bus 78 GMC c25 short course off road race truck(son's truck) 355 th400 14 bolt (www.wheel2wheel.ca) 88 Peterbilt 379 longhood (hauls race truck) Last edited by 62gmc910; 12-24-2009 at 01:48 PM.

12-24-2009, 07:32 PM	#14
low79fx Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: odessa,tx Posts: 208	Re: Watts link install. Do you have any problems with this wheels in the back as far as rubbing on the quarter panels.I'm going to run a set on some BFG 255/60-15.Was just wondering.

08-24-2010, 05:34 PM	#15
onebad65c10 Gm for life. Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Baltimore, Md Posts: 119	Re: Watts link install. Ok everyone. Sorry for the delay in responce to the questions on my Watts link install. Life took priority. I have had a blast driving the truck with this installed over teh adjustable track bar that was installed first with the bags. I have tuned the bars to get no movement side to side. The truck handles alot better. Before when I would jump on it and take off quick it felt unsettled until I got off the gas. Now when ever I jump on it or wanna play with the truck launches and go straight with very little torqueing. I have had no noise coming from any part of the set up. I am very pleases with the set up and the longevity. As far as the lip around the differental cover the main cage sits inside the lip. I didnt have to change the cover or anything. Hope this helps. Any other questions feel free to ask. Later Phil __________________ Phil CHEVY ONLY Baltimore, MD 65 Short wide: 383 stroker 5 spd Toys: D/D: 2017 Silverado LTZ2 crewcab 1969 Pontiac GTO Yes it is a real goat waiting its turn to be the car it was. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pr...59&ref=profile

10-11-2010, 02:42 PM	#16
dznucks Registered User Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Smyrna, Ga Posts: 1,647	Re: Watts link install. Thanks for posting back, guys. thats the kind of feed back i was looking for. I have a CPP deluxe track bar and do not like how it forces the rear of the truck to the left when i hit a bump. Its dangerous in a turn when you hit a pothole or bump in the road. I want something that will not give lateral movement.



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10-11-2010, 04:08 PM	#17
Sick5 C10 CLUB Y QUE! Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Here Posts: 2,770	Re: Watts link install. Now I'm wondering if I need watts link I have ss r7 bags and four link no pan bar I do notice the rear tends to move when raised or lowerd I was thinking a Pan bar would help but I'm not sure now. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ C/10 CLUB http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/f...play.php?f=148

10-11-2010, 08:32 PM	#19
Sick5 C10 CLUB Y QUE! Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Here Posts: 2,770	Re: Watts link install. MmMMMMmmmmm wow I've been driving for four years.. Lol I have a center V I was told I would be ok. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ C/10 CLUB http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/f...play.php?f=148

12-03-2010, 10:12 AM	#21
dznucks Registered User Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Smyrna, Ga Posts: 1,647	Re: Watts link install. Onebad.....do you have any rear pics of the watts link at ride height?

12-05-2010, 01:48 AM	#22
onebad65c10 Gm for life. Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Baltimore, Md Posts: 119	Re: Watts link install. I do not have any pics at ride height. Didnt get any pics at ride height when I installed it. I may have to check the pics I have on another foum i may have one from underneath. __________________ Phil CHEVY ONLY Baltimore, MD 65 Short wide: 383 stroker 5 spd Toys: D/D: 2017 Silverado LTZ2 crewcab 1969 Pontiac GTO Yes it is a real goat waiting its turn to be the car it was. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pr...59&ref=profile

12-05-2010, 01:58 PM	#23
60chvstepside Registered User Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: calgary,AB Posts: 83	Re: Watts link install. here is my watts link install,it is the speedway one....i may make the mounting bracket a little better yet but nothing moves so far ive tested it in the garage alot hope these pics help Attached Images

12-05-2010, 05:27 PM	#24
Rich 5150 69 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Galt, Calif Posts: 2,437	Re: Watts link install. Here`s another article on watts link, somewhat smaller and contained. http://www.webrodder.com/article.php...&SID=60&CID=11 __________________ `64 C10 vortec 350/350/373 posi `69 RS/SS 350/350/308 `37 Ford 406/350/324 traclock `68 Dart 370/904/323 suregrip

12-13-2010, 01:44 PM	#25
dznucks Registered User Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Smyrna, Ga Posts: 1,647	Re: Watts link install. Thanks One Bad. My exhaust comes over the axle, i was hoping to see how much clearance there is once this is installed. I went ahead and bought the KP watts link. I hope to get it installed over the christmas break.

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